Methods and apparatus to facilitate plastic film processing

ABSTRACT

A system includes a film processing module, a processor, and memory. The processor and memory are in communication with the film processing module. The processor is configured to dynamically coordinate movement of the film processing module relative to a moving web of film and to perform a function on the web of film with the film processing module.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to film processing, and, moreparticularly, to methods and apparatuses for facilitating the processingof plastic film into finished plastic film products.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, products made from plastic film and machinery tocontinually produce those products have been developed. These plasticfilm products typically have sealed seams and zippers to form areclosable pouch. In some instances, these plastic film products alsohave pre-printed images. Plastic film processing machinery typicallyincludes tools to cut pouch components from a sheet or tube of plasticfilm, place zippers, and to weld the pouch components and zipperstogether.

Certain known film product manufacturing methods use multiple processingstations each equipped with different machinery and associated conveyorsto move film products in various stages of completion between thosestations. Thus, those known film product manufacturing methods havelarge footprints in a manufacturing facility to produce finished plasticfilm products. Further, with certain known film product manufacturingmethods the entire film product manufacturing line may need to bestopped to perform maintenance on the multiple pieces of differentmachinery.

Additionally, while pre-printed film rolls are typically uniform withina single roll, there are often spatial differences between first andsecond pre-printed rolls even bearing the same images. In others words,the images on the second roll are out of phase (sometimes referred to as“creep”) with respect to the first roll. Thus, if a pre-printed filmroll is misaligned with respect to the film processing machinery, thepre-printed images will cyclically be cut through. Thus, certain knownfilm product manufacturing methods contemplate stopping and realigningall of the film processing machinery in a film processing stationwhenever a new pre-printed web of film is introduced to the filmprocessing station.

Therefore, a need exists to develop film product manufacturing methodsand associated machinery that take up less space, compensate fordifferences between pre-printed film rolls, and may be more easily andquickly maintained, repaired, and aligned.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a system is disclosed, which includes a film processingmodule, a processor, and memory. The processor and memory are incommunication with the film processing module. The processor isconfigured to dynamically coordinate movement of the film processingmodule relative to a moving web of film and to perform a function on theweb of film with the film processing module.

In another aspect, a film processing module is disclosed, which includesa carriage assembly, a linear actuator, and an upper multi-functionalassembly. The carriage assembly is configured to move along a supportingrail. The linear actuator is engaged with the carriage assembly. Theupper multi-functional assembly is engaged with the linear actuator toperform a function on a film adjacent to the supporting rail.

In yet another aspect, a method for producing film products isdisclosed. The method utilizes a processor to perform the steps ofdynamically coordinating movement of a film processing module relativeto a moving web of film and instructing the film processing module toperform a function on the web of film.

In a further aspect, a film processing module is disclosed, whichincludes a carriage assembly, a linear actuator, a base, and an uppermulti-functional assembly. The carriage assembly is configured to movealong a supporting rail. The linear actuator is engaged with thecarriage assembly. The base is engaged with the linear actuator. Theupper multi-functional assembly is driveably engaged with the linearactuator to move relative to the base. The upper multi-functionalassembly includes a clamping plate to selectively clamp a portion of afilm against the base and a cutting mechanism to cut and seal theportion of the film.

In a different aspect, a method for producing sealed film products isdisclosed. The method utilizes a processor to perform the steps ofmoving an upper multi-functional assembly of a film processing module toa ready position relative to a base of the film processing module,moving the film processing module to an aligned location on an oblongsupporting rail such that a portion of a film running parallel to theoblong supporting rail is between the upper multi-functional assemblyand the base, moving the upper multi-functional assembly toward the baseto a clamping position to clamp the film, energizing a cutting mechanismof the upper multi-functional assembly to heat the cutting mechanism,moving the upper multi-functional assembly toward the base to a cuttingposition to cut the film, moving the upper multi-functional assemblyaway from the base to an open position, and moving the film processingmodule to a transfer location on the supporting rail such that aconveyor is between the upper multi-functional assembly and the base.

In yet another aspect, a system is disclosed that includes an oblongsupporting rail, a power source and a controller in electricalcommunication with the supporting rail, and a film processing modulemoveably engaged with the supporting rail. The film processing moduleincludes a base, an upper multi-functional assembly, and a linearactuator. The linear actuator is fixed to the base and driveably engagedto the upper multi-functional assembly to move the uppermulti-functional assembly relative to the base. The uppermulti-functional assembly includes a clamping plate and a cuttingmechanism in electrical communication with the power source and thecontroller to cut and seal film.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an example film processing station,according to one exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic overhead view of the film processing station ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a film processing module of the filmprocessing station of FIG. 1 in an open position;

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the film processingmodule of FIGS. 1-3 in a ready position;

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the film processingmodule of FIG. 4 in a clamping position;

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the film processingmodule of FIGS. 4 and 5 in a cutting position;

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional end view of the film processingmodule of FIG. 4 in the ready position;

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional end view of the film processingmodule of FIG. 5 in the clamping position;

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional end view of the film processingmodule of FIG. 6 in the cutting position;

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional end view of the film processingmodule in an open position carrying cut and sealed film;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the electronic components of the filmprocessing station of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 12 is a more detailed block diagram of a module analyzer of thefilm processing station of FIGS. 1 and 2; and

FIG. 13 is a flowchart representative of an example method that may beperformed to process plastic film into pouches.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As explained herein, the present disclosure provides examples of a filmprocessing station with multiple film processing modules that improvefilm cutting, shaping, and sealing, e.g., to produce plastic filmpouches. The film processing station exhibits a comparatively smallfootprint to manufacture plastic film products. Additionally, the filmprocessing modules each independently clamp, cut, and seal plastic filminto finished products, and transfer the finished products to a waitingconveyor, e.g., for packaging.

As shown in FIGS. 1-10, a film processing station 100 includes one ormore film processing modules 102, a conveyor 104, a supporting rail 106,a bus power source 108 a, a rail power source 108 b, a bus air source108 c, a main controller 110 a, a rail controller 110 b, a power and airbus 112, a first transceiver 114, a registration sensor 116 a, and aplurality of rail sensors 116 b. It should be understood that each filmprocessing module 102 is substantially structurally identical to theother film processing modules 102. Thus, multiple film processingmodules 102 can be used on the supporting rail 106 at a given time andthe film processing modules 102 are interchangeable with one another,without requiring modification to the conveyor 104, the supporting rail106, the bus power source 108 a, the rail power source 108 b, the busair source 108 c, the main controller 110 a, the rail controller 110 b,the power and air bus 112, the first transceiver 114, the registrationsensor 116 a, and/or the plurality of rail sensors 116 b. It is alsocontemplated that alternative film processing modules structurallydifferent from the illustrated film processing modules 102 may be usedin conjunction with the supporting rail 106 and the film processingmodules 102.

Referring to FIG. 2, the main controller 110 a is in communication withthe rail controller 110 b, the transceiver 114, the registration sensor116 a, and the rail sensors 116 b. The main controller 110 a controlsthe movements of the film processing modules 102 along the supportingrail 106 via the rail controller 110 b. The main controller 110 acontrols the film processing functions of the film processing modules102, e.g., cutting and sealing, etc., via the transceiver 114 and/or thebus 112. The bus 112 supplies electrical power and, in some embodiments,compressed air to the film processing modules 102 to perform theirrespective film processing functions. Interactions between the maincontroller 110 a, the rail controller 110 b, the transceiver 114, theregistration sensor 116 a, and the rail sensors 116 b, will be explainedin greater detail below in conjunction with FIGS. 11-13.

With particular reference again to FIG. 2, the supporting rail 106 formsan oblong circuit with opposing, generally straight, parallel first andsecond sides 118, 120 and opposing first and second rounded ends 122,124. It is further contemplated that the oblong circuit may becharacterized as substantially race-track shaped or may take some otherform with both linear and curvilinear segments to form a track. The railsensors 116 b are regularly-spaced along the length of the supportingrail 106. It should be understood that the supporting rail 106 is formedof modular panels and thus may be any desired size. The supporting rail106 is in electrical communication with and is powered by the rail powersource 108 b. The rail power source 108 b is controlled by the railcontroller 110 b. Each of the film processing modules 102 is moveablyengaged with the supporting rail 106.

It should be appreciated that each of the film processing modules 102are independent of one another. The number of film processing modules102 on the supporting rail 106 is based on the length and/or shape ofthe supporting rail 106. In operation, the rail controller 110 bselectively operates all or a subset of the film processing modules 102.Further, in operation, main controller 110 a via the rail controller 110b independently controls the movement of each of the film processingmodules 102 around the supporting rail 106. Additionally, in operation,the controllers 110 a, b may control the film processing modules 102 tomove about the supporting rail 106 at varying travel speeds. Thus, thefilm processing modules 102 may approach or move away from one anotheras they move about the supporting rail 106. In other words, inoperation, the controllers 110 a, b dynamically coordinate theindependent movements of the film processing modules 102 about thesupporting rail 106. Additionally, where alternative film processingmodules are used in conjunction with or in place of the illustrated filmprocessing modules 102, the controllers 110 a, b also dynamicallycoordinate the independent movements of these alternative filmprocessing modules.

With reference again to FIG. 2, in the illustrated example, the bus 112is disposed concentrically external to the supporting rail 106 toprovide the film processing modules 102 with electrical power and/orcompressed air. It should be appreciated that the bus 112 may be placedin any arrangement relative to the supporting rail 106 that provideselectrical power and/or compressed air to the film processing modules102 as the film processing modules 102 move about the supporting rail106. For example, the film processing modules 102 may be arranged toreceive electrical power and/or compressed air where the bus 112 isconcentrically internal to, under, or above the supporting rail 106.

With reference to FIG. 1, a web of a film 126 is depicted adjacent orotherwise alongside the first side 118. When the film 126 is presentedto the film processing station 100, the film 126 is in tube form orfolded. Thus, the film 126 has a top layer 128 and a bottom layer 130 asshown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 8-10. In some embodiments, the film 126 isprovided as a starting material to the film processing station 100 froman unwind machine. In other embodiments, the film 126 is extruded flat,printed on, folded, and then provided as a starting material to the filmprocessing station 100. In yet other embodiments, zippers are positionedand attached to the film 126, the film 126 is folded, and the zippersare closed before the film 126 is provided as a starting material to thefilm processing station 100.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the filmprocessing modules 102 are adapted to clamp, cut, and seal the film 126.It should be understood and appreciated that alternative film processingmodules mounted on the supporting rail 106 and used in conjunction withor in place of the film processing modules 102 may perform otherfunctions on the film 126. For example, the alternative film processingmodules may emboss decorative patterns and/or production informationinto the film 126, print decorative patterns and/or productioninformation onto the film 126, perforate the film 126, place closurezippers on the film 126, ultrasonically form the film 126, abrade thefilm 126 with sand and/or water jets, melt patterns into the film 126,laser ablate the film 126, remove lip portions of the film 126, adddiscrete parts to the film 126, cut shapes into the film 126, score thefilm 126, hot bar seal the film 126, etc. Thus, multiple types of filmprocessing modules may be used together to perform successive in-linefunctions on the film 126. For example, the film 126 may have an imageprinted on it by a printer film processing module, then be embossed byan embosser film processing module, and then cut into pouches by theillustrated cutting film processing module 102. Alternatively, it iscontemplated that multiple types of film processing modules may be usedin other manners, e.g., certain modules may remain idle during a firstphase of a process and may be active alone or in combination with othermodules in a second phase of a process. In fact, it is contemplated thatany combination or arrangement of similar or different film processingmodules may be used.

With particular reference to FIG. 2, the film 126 has a plurality ofdemarcations 132. In some embodiments, the demarcations 132 are printedon the film 126. In some embodiments, the demarcations 132 are embossedinto the film 126. In some embodiments, the demarcations 132 are raisedfeatures of the film 126. It is contemplated that the demarcations 132may take any form to provide location reference points on the otherwisegenerally uniform film 126. The registration sensor 116 a is disposedadjacent to the film 126 to detect the demarcations 132. In theillustrated example, the registration sensor 116 a is transverse to thefilm 126.

Looking again at FIG. 1, more specifically, each of the film processingmodules 102 includes a carriage assembly 134 and a forming assembly 136.The carriage assemblies 134 are in communication with the supportingrail 106. The carriage assemblies 134 each include a supporting bracket140. The supporting bracket 140 is moveably engaged with the supportingrail 106. The carriage assemblies 134 each further include positionmagnets engaged to the supporting bracket 140 (not shown). The positionmagnets actuate the rail sensors 116 b in the supporting rail 106. Theforming assembly 136 is engaged with the supporting bracket 140. Itshould be understood that the supporting rail 106, the rail power source108 b, the rail sensors 116 b, and the carriage assemblies 134 may beprovided as a complete motion control kit, e.g., an iTrak® systemavailable through Rockwell Automation.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in addition to the film processing modules102 being selectively operated by the controllers 110 a, b, it iscontemplated that, in some embodiments, the forming assembly 136 isselectively not attached to the carriage assembly 134. Thus, selectiveones of the film processing modules 102 are reduced to the base carriageassemblies 134 and perform no film processing functions. In other words,depending on the film process to be accomplished, the film processingstation 100 may be outfitted to have “blank” film processing modules102.

In one embodiment, the carriage assemblies 134 each further include oneor more rollers, and a motor. The rollers and the motor are engaged tothe supporting bracket 140. The rollers are in rolling contact with thesupporting rail 106. Thus, the supporting bracket 140 is supported byand moveably engaged with the supporting rail 106. Additionally, one ormore of the rollers is driven by the motor. Thus, the motors of thecarriage assemblies 134 are powered by the rail power source 108 b andcontrolled by the main controller 110 a via the rail controller 110 band the supporting rail 106. In other words, the motor drives one ormore of the rollers to translate the film processing module 102 alongthe supporting rail 106. Movement of the film processing modules 102along the supporting rail 106 is controlled via the controllers 110 a, bbased on signals from the rail sensors 116 b in the supporting rail 106.

Alternatively, or in combination with the prior disclosure, theprocessing modules 102 are moved electromagnetically via magnetsdisposed about the supporting rail 106. Each carriage assembly 134includes a magnetic drive mechanism for movement around the supportingrail 106. Similar to the discussion above, the movement of the filmprocessing modules 102 along the supporting rail 106 is controlled viathe controllers 110 a, b based on signals from the rail sensors 116 b inthe supporting rail 106.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, because the supporting rail 106 is a closedcircuit, the film processing modules 102 travel around the supportingrail 106. As the film processing modules 102 travel along the first side118, the film processing modules 102 perform functions on the film 126and deposit cut and sealed film products 142 onto the conveyor 104.Further, the film processing modules 102 travel along the first roundedend 122, the second side 120, and the second rounded end 124 to returnto the film 126.

Turning to FIG. 3, the forming assembly 136 of each of the filmprocessing modules 102 includes a frame 144, a base 148, a linearactuator 150, and an upper multi-functional assembly 152. In someembodiments, the forming assembly 136 further includes a secondtransceiver 154 and a battery 156. In some embodiments, the formingassembly 136 further includes an air controller 158 (see FIGS. 7-10).

More specifically, and with reference again to FIG. 3, the linearactuator 150 supports the frame 144. The frame 144 supports the base148. Thus, the base 148 is cantilevered relative to the linear actuator150. In the illustrated example, the frame 144 is a triangular brace.The upper multi-functional assembly 152 moves toward and away from thebase 148 via the linear actuator 150. The frame 144, the base 148, andthe upper multi-functional assembly 152 extend generally perpendicularlyoutwardly from the linear actuator 150 relative to the supporting rail106. Thus, the base 148 and the upper multi-functional assembly 152 aregenerally parallel to one another. Additionally, the base 148 defines anoutwardly extending inlay 160. In some examples, the inlay 160 is linedwith an elastomer 162.

More specifically, the linear actuator 150 includes a motor (not shown)in a motor housing 164, a guide rail 166, and a sled 168. The secondtransceiver 154 and the battery 156 are supported by the motor housing164. The guide rail 166 is engaged to the motor housing 164 and to thesupporting bracket 140, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3. The guide rail 166extends upwardly relative to the motor housing 164. The sled 168 ismoveably engaged with the guide rail 166, e.g., slidably, via bearings,etc. The frame 144 is engaged with the motor housing 164 and the guiderail 166. The upper multi-functional assembly 152 is engaged with thesled 168.

In some embodiments, the linear actuator 150 is in electricalcommunication with the bus 112, e.g., via electrical brushes. In someembodiments, the linear actuator 150 is in electrical communication withthe battery 156. Thus, the motor of the linear actuator 150 is poweredby the bus power source 108 a and/or the battery 156. In someembodiments, the linear actuator 150 is controlled by the maincontroller 110 a via the bus 112. In different embodiments, the linearactuator 150 is in electrical communication with the second transceiver154 and is controlled by the main controller 110 a via the first andsecond transceivers 114, 154. In other words, the motor receivesinstructions from the main controller 110 a and drives the sled 168 totranslate the upper multi-functional assembly 152 along the guide rail166. Thus, movement of the upper multi-functional assembly 152 along theguide rail 166 is controlled via the main controller 110 a.

With reference now to FIG. 4, the upper multi-functional assembly 152includes a support arm 170, a first upper biasing member 172 a, a secondupper biasing member 172 b, a first lower biasing member 174 a, a secondlower biasing member 174 b, a hot wire assembly 176, and a clampingassembly 178.

The hot wire assembly 176 includes a carrier plate 180, a cuttingmechanism 182, a first support wire 184 a, and a second support wire 184b. The first support wire 184 a and the second support wire 184 b areengaged with opposing ends of the cutting mechanism 182. Alternatively,the first and second support wires 184 a, b may constitute otherconnector structures and may be positioned elsewhere along the length ofthe cutting mechanism 182. Turning again to the present embodiment, thefirst support wire 184 a and the second support wire 184 b are engagedwith the carrier plate 180. Thus, the cutting mechanism 182 is suspendedfrom the carrier plate 180.

The cutting mechanism 182 is depicted as generally straight to makestraight cuts and seals through the film 126. It is additionallycontemplated that the cutting mechanism 182 may have a curvilinear form.Thus, the cutting mechanism 182 may make corresponding curvilineardecorative and/or functional cuts and seals through the film 126, e.g.,scalloped, interlocking, zigzagged, meandering, wave scrolled,undulating, etc. Further, while the cutting mechanism 182 is depicted asa wire, it is contemplated that the cutting mechanism 182 may be anytype of cutting mechanism such as, for example, a knife, a blade, apunch, a saw, etc.

In some embodiments, the hot wire assembly 176 is in electricalcommunication with the bus 112. In other embodiments, the hot wireassembly 176 is in electrical communication with the battery 156. Thus,the hot wire assembly 176 is powered by the bus power source 108 aand/or the battery 156. In some embodiments, the hot wire assembly 176is controlled by the main controller 110 a via the bus 112. In differentembodiments, the hot wire assembly 176 is in electrical communicationwith the second transceiver 154 and is controlled by the main controller110 a via the first and second transceivers 114, 154. In other words,the hot wire assembly 176 receives instructions from the main controller110 a to energize and de-energize.

In some embodiments, the hot wire assembly 176 is continuously energizedby the main controller 110 a. When the hot wire assembly 176 isenergized, the cutting mechanism 182 becomes hot to cut and seal thefilm 126, as will be explained in greater detail below. In other words,when an electric current is applied to the cutting mechanism 182, thecutting mechanism 182 heats to a temperature greater than or equal tothe melting temperature of the film 126. Additionally, in someembodiments, the cutting mechanism 182 is arranged to be compatible withcommercially available heaters that are controlled with controllersmounted on the forming assembly 136 (not shown).

It is contemplated that the film 126 may comprise any number ofmaterials, including, for example, a thermoplastic material, metallicfoil, layered composites, fabric, paper, etc. Illustrative thermoplasticmaterials that could be used include, for example, polypropylene (PP),polyethylene (PE), metallocene-polyethylene (mPE), low densitypolyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), ultra-lowdensity polyethylene (ULDPE), biaxially-oriented polyethyleneterephthalate (BPET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), and polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), among other polyolefin plastomers and combinationsand blends thereof. Still other materials that may be used includestyrenic block copolymers, polyolefin blends, elastomeric alloys,thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic copolyesters, thermoplasticpolyamides, polymers and copolymers of polyvinyl chloride (PVC),polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), saran polymers, ethylene/vinyl acetatecopolymers, cellulose acetates, polyethylene terephthalate (PET),ionomer, polystyrene, polycarbonates, styrene acryloacrylonitrile,aromatic polyesters, linear polyesters, non-woven materials such asTyvek®, and thermoplastic polyvinyl alcohols. Those skilled in the artwill recognize that a wide variety of other materials may also be usedto form the film 126. Illustrative sustainable films materials thatcould be used include, for example, bio-based polyethylenes such asLDPE, LLPDE, etc., renewable resins and/or bio-based feedstocks,post-consumer recycled plastics, compostable resins such as PHA, PBAT,PCL, PLA, etc.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the clamping assembly 178 includes afirst post 186 a, a second post 186 b, and a clamping plate 188, whichdefines a cutting opening 190. The cutting opening 190 is sized to allowthe cutting mechanism 182 to pass through the cutting opening 190. Thefirst and second posts 186 a, b are slidably engaged with the supportarm 170. The clamping plate 188 is engaged with the first and secondposts 186 a, b. The first upper biasing member 172 a and the first lowerbiasing member 174 a are disposed about the first post 186 a between theclamping plate 188 and the support arm 170. The second upper biasingmember 172 b and the second lower biasing member 174 b are disposedabout the second post 186 b between the clamping plate 188 and thesupport arm 170. Thus, the clamping plate 188 is suspended from andmoveable relative to the support arm 170. The first and second upperbiasing members 172 a, b and the first and second lower biasing members174 a, b bias the clamping plate 188 away from the support arm 170.

Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4, the carrier plate 180 is slidablyengaged with the first and second posts 186 a, b. The carrier plate 180is disposed between the first upper biasing member 172 a and the firstlower biasing member 174 a. The carrier plate is disposed between thesecond upper biasing member 172 b and the second lower biasing member174 b. Thus, the carrier plate 180 is sandwiched between the first andsecond upper biasing members 172 a, b and the first and second lowerbiasing members 174 a, b. In other words, the carrier plate 180 isslidably captured on the first and second posts 186 a, b. The first andsecond upper biasing members 172 a, b bias the carrier plate 180 awayfrom the support arm 170. The first and second lower biasing members 174a, b bias the carrier plate 180 away from the clamping plate 188. Thus,the hot wire assembly 176 is suspended from and moveable relative to thesupport arm 170 and the clamping assembly 178.

In the illustrated example of FIGS. 3 and 4, the first and second upperbiasing members 172 a, b and the first and second lower biasing members174 a, b are coil springs. In some embodiments, the first and secondfirst and second upper biasing members 172 a, b have a greater springforce constant than the first and second lower biasing members 174 a, b.In a preferred embodiment, the first and second lower biasing members174 a, b provide between approximately 50 and 60 pounds (222.4 and 266.9Newtons) of clamping force. Thus, the first and second upper biasingmembers 172 a, b push the first and second lower biasing members 174 a,b during a cut cycle, as will be explained in greater detail below.

In embodiments including the air controller 158, the clamping assembly178 further includes one or more airflow lines 192 (see, for example,FIG. 7). In such embodiments, the clamping plate 188 further defines oneor more airflow openings 194. The airflow openings 194 are defined in atrailing portion of the clamping plate 188 relative to the traveldirection of the film processing modules 102 along the supporting rail106. The airflow lines 192 attach to the clamping plate 188 at theairflow openings 194. In other words, the airflow lines 176 correspondto and are in fluid communication with the airflow openings 194. Theairflow lines 192 are also in fluid communication with the aircontroller 158. The airflow lines 192 are flexible to accommodatemovement of the clamping plate 188 relative to the support arm 170. Inthe present embodiment, it is contemplated that plant air is used incombination with a Venturi device to create a vacuum source.

The air controller 158 is an airflow directing device. In someembodiments, the air controller 158 is an electrically-driven air pump.In other embodiments, the air controller 158 is a pneumatically-drivenVenturi device associated with an electrically or mechanically-drivenvalve. In such embodiments, the air controller 158 is in fluidcommunication with the bus 112 and the air controller 158 ispneumatically powered by the bus air source 108 c. In some embodiments,the air controller 158 is in electrical communication with the bus 112.In other embodiments, the air controller 158 is in electricalcommunication with the battery 156. Thus, the air controller 158 iselectrically powered by the bus power source 108 a and/or the battery156. In some embodiments, the air controller 158 is controlled by themain controller 110 a via the bus 112. In different embodiments, the aircontroller 158 is in electrical communication with the secondtransceiver 154 and is controlled by the main controller 110 a via thefirst and second transceivers 114, 154. In other words, the aircontroller 158 receives instructions from the main controller 110 a todraw air through the airflow openings 194 and the airflow lines 192 toproduce a vacuum between the film 126 and the clamping plate 188, aswill be explained in greater detail below.

With reference to FIGS. 7-10, in some embodiments, the hot wire assembly176 further includes an on-board heater controller 196. The heatercontroller 196 is in electrical communication with the cutting mechanism182. In such embodiments, the cutting mechanism 182 includes one or morecartridge heaters.

The support arm 170 is engaged with the sled 168 to extend outwardlyfrom the guide rail 166. The support arm 170 is hollow to reduce weightand to act as a housing for the air controller 158, the airflow lines192, the heater controller 196, and/or wiring to power the hot wireassembly 176.

With particular reference to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the formingassembly 136 further includes one or more module sensors 198. Operationof the module sensor 198 will be described in greater detail below.

With reference now to FIG. 11, the main controller 110 a, the railcontroller 110 b, the bus 112, the first transceiver 114, theregistration sensor 116 a, the rail sensors 116 b, the carriage assembly134, the linear actuator 150, the second transceiver 154, the aircontroller 158, the hot wire assembly 178, and the module sensors 198are collectively referred to as the electronic components 200 of thefilm processing station 100.

In some embodiments, the bus 112 communicatively couples the maincontroller 110 a, the linear actuator 150, the air controller 158, thehot wire assembly 176, and the module sensors 198. In some embodiments,the linear actuator 150, the air controller 158, the hot wire assembly176, and the module sensors 198 are communicatively coupled to thesecond transceiver 154, which is in wireless communication with thefirst transceiver 114. The bus 112 may be implemented in accordance witha controller area network (CAN) bus protocol as defined by InternationalStandards Organization (ISO) 11898-1, a Media Oriented Systems Transport(MOST) bus protocol, a CAN flexible data (CAN-FD) bus protocol (ISO11898-7), a K-line bus protocol (ISO 9141 and ISO 14230-1), and/or anEthernet bus protocol IEEE 802.3 (2002 onwards), etc.

The first and second transceivers 114, 154 include wired or wirelessnetwork interfaces to enable communication with external networks andwith one another. The first and second transceivers 114, 154 alsoinclude hardware, e.g., processors, memory, storage, antennae, etc., andsoftware to control the wired or wireless network interfaces. In someembodiments, the first and second transceivers 114, 154 includes a wiredor wireless interface, e.g., an auxiliary port, a Universal Serial Bus(USB) port, a Bluetooth® wireless node, etc., to communicatively couplewith a mobile device, e.g., a smartphone, a smart watch, etc. In suchembodiments, the film processing station 100 may communicate with theexternal network via the mobile device. The external network may be apublic network, such as the Internet; a private network, such as anintranet; or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety ofnetworking protocols now available or later developed including, but nolimited to TCP/IP-based networking protocols.

The rail sensors 116 b are position sensors, e.g., magneticeddy-current, ultrasonic, Hall effect, inductive, etc., to detectlocations of the film processing modules 102 along the supporting rail106. The registration sensor 116 a and the module sensors 198 arefeature-detecting sensors, e.g., a camera, optical, ultrasonic, radiofrequency, etc., to detect and locate the demarcations 132 on the film126 and/or provide discrete inputs to the linear actuator 150 to performspecific movements or movement profiles.

The main controller 110 a includes a main processor 202 a and a mainmemory 204 a. The rail controller 110 b includes a rail processor 202 band a rail memory 204 b. The processors 202 a, b may be any suitableprocessing device or set of processing devices such as, but not limitedto, a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integratedcircuit, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and/or oneor more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The memories204 a, b may be volatile memory (e.g., RAM including non-volatile RAM,magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., diskmemory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, EEPROMs, memristor-based non-volatilesolid-state memory, etc.), unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs), read-onlymemory, and/or high-capacity storage devices (e.g., hard drives, solidstate drives, etc.). In some examples, the memories 204 a, b includemultiple kinds of memory, particularly volatile memory and non-volatilememory.

The memories 204 a, b are computer readable media on which one or moresets of instructions, such as the software for operating the methods ofthe present disclosure, can be embedded. The instructions may embody oneor more of the methods or logic as described herein. For example, theinstructions reside completely, or at least partially, within any one ormore of the memories 204 a, b, the computer readable medium, and/orwithin the processors 202 a, b during execution of the instructions.

The terms “non-transitory computer-readable medium” and“computer-readable medium” include a single medium or multiple media,such as a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated cachesand servers that store one or more sets of instructions. Further, theterms “non-transitory computer-readable medium” and “computer-readablemedium” include any tangible medium that is capable of storing, encodingor carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or thatcause a system to perform any one or more of the methods or operationsdisclosed herein. As used herein, the term “computer readable medium” isexpressly defined to include any type of computer readable storagedevice and/or storage disk and to exclude propagating signals.

The main processor 202 a is structured to include a module analyzer 206(see FIG. 12). The module analyzer 206 includes a module locator 208, afilm demarcation detector 210, an offset determiner 212, a modulelocation adjuster 214, a hot wire energizer 216, a vacuum determiner218, and a clamp adjuster 220.

In operation, the module locator 208 receives signals from the railsensors 116 b corresponding to locations of each of the film processingmodules 102 along the supporting rail 106. The module locator 208monitors the locations of each of the film processing modules 102 as thefilm processing modules 102 move about the supporting rail 106. As themodule locator 208 monitors the locations of the film processing modules102, the module location adjuster 214 adjusts the locations of each ofthe film processing modules 102 along the supporting rail 106 andrelative to one another via the rail controller 110 b, e.g., to move thefilm processing modules 102 through the film working process, to preventcollisions, etc.

Further in operation, the module location adjuster 214 of FIG. 12successively moves each of the film processing modules 102 to a startlocation 230 along the supporting rail 106, as shown in FIG. 2. Whilethe film processing modules 102 are being moved to the start location230, the clamp adjuster 220 moves their respective uppermulti-functional assemblies 152 into a ready position 232 relative tothe base 148, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7. As shown in FIG. 2, the startlocation 230 is distanced away from the film 126. Thus, the filmprocessing module 102 will not interfere with the film 126 before theupper multi-functional assembly 152 is in the ready position 232. Whenthe upper multi-functional assembly 152 is in the ready position 232,the film processing module 102 is ready to accept the film 126 betweenthe upper multi-functional assembly 152 and the base 148. In someembodiments, the clamping plate 188 is distanced between about 1 toabout 3 inches (2.54 and 7.62 centimeters) from the base 148 when theupper multi-functional assembly 152 is in the ready position 232. In apreferred embodiment, the clamping plate 188 is distanced approximately2.1 inches (5.3 centimeters) from the base 220 when the uppermulti-functional assembly 142 is in the ready position 232.Additionally, when the upper multi-functional assembly 152 is in theready position 232, the hot wire assembly 176 is between the support arm170 and the clamping plate 188.

Further in operation, in some embodiments, the hot wire energizer 216energizes the hot wire assembly 176 in preparation to cut the film 126.More specifically, the hot wire energizer 216 accesses the location ofthe film processing module 102 along the supporting rail 106 determinedby the module locator 208. The hot wire energizer 216 then turns on thehot wire assembly 176 such that the cutting mechanism 182 will be hot intime to cut the film 126 further along the supporting rail 106. Thus,the hot wire energizer 216 coordinates and synchronizes energization ofthe hot wire assembly 176 relative to the supporting rail 106 usinginformation provided by the rail sensors 116. In other words, the hotwire energizer 216 times the heating of the cutting mechanism 182 so thecutting mechanism 182 is ready to cut the film 126 along the first side118.

In other embodiments, in operation, where the cutting mechanism 182includes cartridge heaters, the hot wire assembly 176 is continuouslyheated via the on-board heater controller 196.

Continuing in operation, the module location adjuster 214 of FIG. 11successively moves each of the film processing modules 102 along thesecond rounded end 124 toward the first side 118 to intercept the film126, as shown in FIG. 2. As the film processing modules 102 meet thefilm 126, the upper multi-functional assemblies 152 are above the filmand the bases 148 are below the film 126. When the film processingmodules 102 reach an aligned location 234 along the first side 118 ofthe supporting rail 106, the film processing modules 102 are transversewith respect to an axis A along which the film 126 travels, shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. Additionally, when the film processing modules 102 reachthe aligned location 234, their respective upper multi-functionalassemblies 152 and bases 148 extend beyond the film 126 with respect tothe supporting rail 106, as shown in FIG. 1. In other words, once thefilm processing module 102 is in the aligned location 234, the film 126is between and generally perpendicular to the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 and the base 148. Further, once the film processing modules102 reach the aligned location 234, the film processing modules 102 aregenerally perpendicular to the first side 118. Thus, after reaching thealigned location 234, the film processing modules 102 travel along thesupporting rail 106 parallel to the first side 118 and the axis A.

Continuing in operation, in some embodiments, the film demarcationdetector 210 of FIG. 12 receives signals from the module sensors 198 ofFIG. 11 to detect the demarcations 132 on the film 126, as shown in FIG.2. In other words, the film demarcation detector 210 looks downwardly onthe film 126 using the module sensor 180 to search for the demarcations132. It should be understood that as the film 126 is provided to thefilm processing station 100 and the film processing modules 102 meet thefilm 126 at the aligned location 234, the demarcations 132 may not bedirectly beneath the upper multi-functional assembly 152.

Further in operation, in such embodiments, once the film demarcationdetector 210 detects one of the demarcations 132 on the film 126, theoffset determiner 212 of FIG. 12 determines an offset 236 for thedemarcation 132 with respect to the cutting mechanism 182, as shown inFIG. 2. More specifically, the offset determiner 212 accesses thelocation of the film processing module 102 along the supporting rail 106determined by the module locator 208 to determine a distance between thedemarcation 132 and the cutting mechanism 182. In other words, in suchembodiments, the offset determiner 212 determines how far the filmprocessing module 102 is out of synchronization with the detecteddemarcation 132 along the axis A using information provided by themodule sensor 180 and the rail sensors 116.

Continuing in operation, in different embodiments, the film demarcationdetector 210 of FIG. 12 receives signals from the registration sensor116 a of FIGS. 2 and 11 to detect the demarcations 132 on the film 126,as shown in FIG. 2. In other words, the film demarcation detector 210looks downwardly on the film 126 using the registration sensor 116 a tosearch for the demarcations 132.

Further in operation, in such embodiments, once the film demarcationdetector 210 detects two or more of the demarcations 132 on the film126, the offset determiner 212 of FIG. 12 determines a frequency (a“pitch”) of how quickly the demarcations 132 pass the registrationsensor 116 a, as shown in FIG. 2. From this frequency, the offsetdeterminer 212 determines the offset 236 of the demarcations 132 withrespect to one another, as shown in FIG. 2. In other words, in suchembodiments, the offset determiner 212 determines how far the filmprocessing modules 102 are out of synchronization with the detecteddemarcations 132 along the axis A using information provided by theregistration sensor 116 a and the rail sensors 116 b.

Continuing in operation, the module location adjuster 214 successivelymoves the film processing modules 102 along the first side 118 from thealigned location 234 toward a first pressed position 238 along the firstside 118, as shown in FIG. 2. As the film processing modules 102transition from the aligned location 234 to the first pressed location238, the module location adjuster 214 adjusts the location of the filmprocessing modules 102 to close and/or synchronize with the offset 236.More specifically, in some embodiments, as the film processing modules102 move from the aligned location 234 toward the first pressed location238, the module location adjuster 214 adjusts the travel speed of thefilm processing modules 102 along axis A with respect to the film 126 tobring the demarcation 132 between the inlay 160 and the cuttingmechanism 182, as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the modulelocation adjuster 214 adjusts the travel speed of the film processingmodules 102 along axis A to bring the demarcation 132 in line with apredetermined reference point of the film processing module 102. Inother words, the module location adjuster 214 coordinates andsynchronizes the locations of the film processing modules 102 relativeto the demarcations 132 using information provided by the rail sensors116 b, the registration sensor 116 a, and/or the module sensors 198.

Also in operation, as the film processing modules 102 transition fromthe aligned location 234 to the first pressed location 238, the clampadjuster 220 moves their respective upper multi-functional assemblies152 toward a clamping position 242 relative to the bases 148, as shownin FIGS. 5 and 8.

When the upper multi-functional assembly 152 moves downwardly toward thebase 148, the clamping plate 188 contacts the film 126 to compress thefirst and second lower biasing members 174 a, b. When the uppermulti-functional assembly 152 moves further downwardly toward the base148 into the clamping position 242 shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, the first andsecond lower biasing members 174 a, b are compressed and a section ofthe film 126 is clamped between the clamping plate 188 and the base 148.

As the film processing modules 102 reach the first pressed location 238along the first side 118, their respective upper multi-functionalassemblies 152 reach the clamping position 242 relative to the bases148. In a preferred embodiment, the cutting mechanism 182 is distancedapproximately 0.1 inches (2.54 millimeters) from the base 148 when theupper multi-functional assembly 152 is in the clamping position 242.

Yet further in operation, the module location adjuster 214 successivelymoves the film processing modules 102 along the first side 118 from thefirst pressed location 238 toward a second pressed location 244, asshown in FIG. 2. Thus, the clamped film 126 is carried from the firstpressed location 238 to the second pressed location 244. In someembodiments, the length of the straight first side 118 corresponds tothe time required to perform the cutting and sealing operation for agiven film material.

Continuing in operation, during the transition of the film processingmodules 102 from the first pressed location 238 to the second pressedlocation 244, the clamp adjuster 220 moves their respective uppermulti-functional assemblies 152 toward a cutting position 246 relativeto the bases 148, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 9.

When the upper multi-functional assembly 152 moves from the clampingposition 242 toward the cutting position 246 the clamping plate 188remains stationary relative to the base 148 and the first and secondlower biasing members 174 a, b are compressed between the clamping plate188 and the carrier plate 180. Thus, the film 126 is tightly clampedbetween the clamping plate 188 and the base 148 while the hot wireassembly 176 moves closer toward the base 148.

While the film processing module 102 continues to transition from thefirst pressed location 238 to the second pressed location 244, the uppermulti-functional assembly 152 moves yet further toward the cuttingposition 246 relative to the base 148 during compression of the firstand second lower biasing members 174 a, b. The cutting mechanism 182thus passes through the cutting opening 190, compresses the film 126against the inlay 160, cuts and seals the film 126, and contacts theinlay 160. In other words, the cutting mechanism 182 cuts and seals thefilm 126 while the film processing module 102 is between the firstpressed location 238 and the second pressed location 244.

More specifically, the clamp adjuster 220 accesses the location of thefilm processing module 102 along the supporting rail 106 determined bythe module locator 208. The clamp adjuster 220 then moves the uppermulti-functional assembly 142 from the clamping position 242 toward thecutting position 246 such that the location of the cut to the film 126relative to the supporting rail 106 is configured for the hot wireassembly 176 to stay in the cutting position 246 for a predeterminedamount of time. Thus, the clamp adjuster 220 coordinates andsynchronizes the cutting of the film 126 relative to the supporting rail106 using information provided by the module sensors 198 and the railsensors 116 b. In other words, the clamp adjuster 220 dynamically timesthe descent of the upper multi-functional assembly 152 from the clampingposition 242 to the cutting position 246 so the cutting mechanism 182remains in contact with the film 126 for a period of time after the cutis complete. Thus, the film product 142 is robustly sealed when it isdeposited on the conveyor 104 at a transfer position 248, as will beexplained in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the travel timeof the hot wire assembly 176 from the clamping position 242 to thecutting position 246 is between about 0.1 to about 2.0 seconds. Itshould be appreciated that the compression of the film 126 between thecutting mechanism 182 and the inlay 160, and the dwell period of the hotwire assembly 176 in the cutting position 246, act to apply thenecessary heat and pressure to a predetermined position on the film 126to cut top and bottom layers 128, 130, respectively, thereof, and tofuse the top and bottom layers 128, 130 into a leading seal 250 and atrailing seal 252, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Thus, the hot wireassembly 176 cuts the film 126 into individual sealed film products 142,e.g., individual pouches, with predetermined lengths, as shown in FIGS.1 and 2. It should also be appreciated that the inlay 160 acts as a hardstop for the cutting mechanism 182 at the cutting position 246 and thusalso the upper multi-functional assembly 152, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 9.

Even further in operation, the module location adjuster 214 successivelymoves the film processing modules 102 along the first side 118 from thesecond pressed location 244 to the transfer location 248 along the firstside 118, as shown in FIG. 2. As the film processing modules 102transition from the second pressed location 244 to the transfer location248, the clamp adjuster 220 moves their respective uppermulti-functional assemblies 152 into an open position 254 relative tothe bases 148, as shown in FIG. 10. In some embodiments, the clampingplate 188 is distanced between about 3 to about 7 inches (7.62 and 17.78centimeters) from the base 148 when the upper multi-functional assembly152 is in the open position 254. In a preferred embodiment, the clampingplate 188 is distanced about 5.1 inches (12.95 centimeters) from thebase 148 when the upper multi-functional assembly 152 is in the openposition 254. Thus, the multi-functional assemblies 152 and the carriedfilm products 142 are placed over the conveyor 104. Additionally, thebase 148 is under the conveyor 104 at the transfer location 248. Wheneach film processing module 102 reaches the transfer location 248, thesealed film product 142 is deposited onto the conveyor 104. Thus, acontinuous series of individual sealed film products 142 is placed alongthe conveyor 104, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

In some embodiments, the sealed film products 142 are temporarilyretained against the clamping plate 188 adhesively and/or viaelectrostatic forces.

In embodiments including the air controller 158, in operation, thevacuum determiner 218 energizes the air controller 158 as the uppermulti-functional assembly 152 rises from the cutting position 246 to theopen position 254 to draw air out of the airflow lines 192 and theairflow openings 194. Thus, the air controller 158 forms a vacuumbetween the cut film 126 and the clamping plate 188 and the cut film 126is retained against the clamping plate 188 by atmospheric air pressure.In such embodiments, the vacuum determiner 218 de-energizes the aircontroller 158 at the transfer location 248 to release the cut film 126from the clamping plate 188 onto the conveyor 104. Alternatively, insuch embodiments, the vacuum determiner 218 reverses the air controller158 at the transfer location 248 to blow the cut film 126 from theclamping plate 188 onto the conveyor 104. In such embodiments, thevacuum determiner 218 de-energizes the air controller 158 once the filmproduct 142 is blown onto the conveyor 104.

While the above description discusses how the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 moves toward and away from the base 148, it is contemplatedthat, in some embodiments, the film processing module 102 may bearranged for the upper multi-functional assembly 152 to be stationarywith respect to the linear actuator 150 and the base 148 to be engagedwith the linear actuator 150 to be moveable toward and away from theupper multi-functional assembly 152. It is further contemplated that, insome embodiments, the film processing module 102 may be arranged for theupper multi-functional assembly 152 and the base 148 to be moveablyengaged with the linear actuator 150 and thus moveable with respect toone another. In other words, all arrangements where the base 148 and theupper multi-functional assembly 152 move relative to one another via thelinear actuator 150 are contemplated.

Continuing in operation, in some embodiments, the hot wire energizer 216de-energizes the hot wire assembly 176 once the film products 142 aredeposited on the conveyor 104. More specifically, the hot wire energizer216 accesses the location of the film processing module 102 along thesupporting rail 106 determined by the module locator 208. The hot wireenergizer 216 then turns off the hot wire assembly 176 when the filmprocessing module 102 moves past the transfer location 248. Thus, thehot wire energizer 216 coordinates and synchronizes de-energization ofthe hot wire assembly 176 relative to the supporting rail 106 usinginformation provided by the rail sensors 116. In other words, the hotwire energizer 216 times the de-energization of the cutting mechanism182 to save electrical energy when the cutting mechanism 182 is not inuse.

Continuing in operation, the module location adjuster 214 successivelymoves the film processing modules 102 along the first rounded end 122and the second side 120, e.g., a “back stretch,” of the supporting rail106 to the start location 230. Meanwhile, the clamp adjuster 220 movesthe upper multi-functional assembly 152 to the ready position 232relative to the base 148, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7. Thus, thecontroller 110 prepares the film processing modules 102 to meetsuccessive new sections of film 126 at the aligned location 234.

It is contemplated that in addition or alternatively to the operationsof the film processing modules 102 coordinated by the main controller110 a using the module analyzer 206, the main controller 110 a may alsodynamically coordinate functions performed by alternative filmprocessing modules mounted to the supporting rail 106. Thus, the maincontroller 110 a may coordinate and synchronize the clamping and cuttingfunctions performed by the film processing modules 102 with additionalfunctions performed by other types of modules. For example, the maincontroller 110 a may coordinate the clamping and cutting of the film bythe film processing modules 102 with an embossing module that shapesdecorative patterns and/or production information into the film 126, aprinting module that prints decorative patterns and/or productioninformation onto the film 126, a perforating module that perforates thefilm 126, etc.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart representative of an example method 300 that maybe performed to process plastic film into pouches. The flowchart of FIG.13 is representative of machine readable instructions that are stored inmemory (such as the memory 204 a of FIG. 11) and include one or moreprograms which, when executed by a processor (such as the processor 202a of FIG. 1a ), cause the main controller 110 a to operate the filmprocessing modules 102 of FIGS. 1-10 on the supporting rail 106 of FIGS.1 and 2. While the example program is described with reference to theflowchart illustrated in FIG. 13, many other methods of operating thefilm processing modules 102 on the supporting rail 106 may alternativelybe used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may berearranged, changed, eliminated, and/or combined to perform the method300. Further, because the method 300 is disclosed in connection with thecomponents of FIGS. 1-10, some functions of those components will not bedescribed in detail below.

Initially, at block 302, the main controller 110 a moves the filmprocessing module 102 to the start location 230. Thus, the maincontroller 110 a positions the film processing module 102 along thesupporting rail 106 at a starting location away from the film 126.

At block 304, the main controller 110 a moves the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 to the ready position 232. When the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 is in the ready position 232, the film processing module102 is ready to accept the film 126 between the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 and base 138.

At block 306, the main controller 110 a moves the film processing module102 to the aligned location 234. As the film processing module 102 movesto the aligned location 234, the film 126 is placed between the uppermulti-functional assembly 152 and the base 148.

At block 308, the main controller 110 a adjusts the location of the filmprocessing module 102 along the supporting rail 106 to synchronize withone or more of the demarcations 132 on the film 126. The film processingmodule 102 is aligned with the demarcation 132 to produceregularly-sized film products 142.

At block 310, the main controller 110 a moves the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 to the clamping position 242. When the uppermulti-functional assembly 152 moves to the clamping position 242, thelower biasing members 174 a, b are compressed and the clamping plate 188compresses the film 126 against the base 148.

At block 312, the main controller 110 a moves the film processing module102 to the first pressed location 238. Thus, the film processing module102 carries the clamped film 126 as the film processing module 102reaches the first pressed location 238.

In some embodiments, at block 314, the main controller 110 a energizesthe hot wire assembly 176. Thus, the cutting mechanism 182 of the hotwire assembly 176 heats up in preparation to cut and seal the film 126.It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the hot wire assembly176 is continuously heated via the on-board heater controller 196.

At block 316, the main controller 110 a moves the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 to the cutting position 246. When the uppermulti-functional assembly 152 descends to the cutting position 246, thefirst and second lower biasing members 174 a, b are compressed further,the cutting mechanism 182 passes through the cutting opening 190, thecutting mechanism 182 cuts and seals the film 126, and the cuttingmechanism 182 comes to a hard stop against the inlay 160.

At block 318, the main controller 110 a moves the film processing module102 to the second pressed location 244. Thus, the film processing module102 carries the clamped film 126 as the film processing module 102 movestoward the second pressed location 244. It should be understood that thetravel time period between the first and second pressed locations 238,244 allows the cutting mechanism 182 to form the leading and trailingseals 250, 252.

In embodiments including the air controller 158, the main controller 110a pulls a vacuum at block 320. More specifically, the main controller110 a energizes the air controller 158 to draw air through the airflowlines 192 and airflow openings 194 to retain the film 126 against theclamping plate 188.

At block 322, the main controller 110 a moves the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 to the open position 254. Thus, the main controller 110 araises the multi-functional assembly 152 along with the film 126 awayfrom the base 148. When the multi-functional assembly 152 moves to theopen position 254, the cutting mechanism 182 retracts away from the film126 back through the cutting opening 190.

At block 324, the main controller 110 a de-energizes the hot wireassembly 176. The cutting mechanism 182 is thus turned off. It should beunderstood that turning off the cutting mechanism 182 after cutting andsealing the film 126 may save electrical energy during production of thefilm products 142.

At block 326, the main controller 110 a moves the film processing module102 to the transfer location 248. Thus, the upper multi-functionalassembly 152 and the carried film product 142 are placed over theconveyor 104.

In embodiments including the air controller 158, the main controller 110a releases the vacuum at block 328. In some embodiments, the maincontroller 110 a de-energizes the air controller 158 and the filmproduct 142 passively falls onto the conveyor 104. In some embodiments,the main controller 110 a reverses the air controller 158 to activelyblow the film product 142 onto the conveyor 104 and then de-energizesthe air controller 158. It should be understood that turning off the aircontroller 158 after depositing the film product 142 on the conveyor 104may save electrical energy during production of the film products 142.The method 300 then returns to block 302.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the above disclosedsystem and method disclose a film processing station 100 that reducesthe number of machines and associated footprint size of machines used toproduce film products and may thus aid in reducing associatedmanufacturing costs and energy consumption. Further, because the filmprocessing modules 102 are interchangeable, individual film processingmodules 102 may be easily removed from the film processing station 100,e.g., for maintenance, thus reducing unproductive down time of the filmprocessing station 100 and associated costs. Additionally, because thecutting mechanism 182 dwells on the film 126 and then retracts awayabove the clamping plate 188, the film processing modules 102 producefilm products 142 with robust seals while reducing manufacturingdefects, associated film waste, and associated disposal costs.

Moreover, because the above disclosed film processing station 100dynamically aligns the film processing modules 102 with the web of film102, asynchronous processing and cutting, sometimes referred to as“creep,” in images on pre-printed film rolls may be avoided. The presentfilm processing station 100 system and associated methods advantageouslyallow for real-time adjustment of the film processing modules 102relative to the web of film 126 supplied to the film processing station100. Thus, the present film processing station 100 system and associatedmethods compensate for differences between supplied webs of film 126without the stopping of the process. Such advantages are also applicableto any process that contemplates uniform cutting between sheet and/orfilm products from the same or different sources.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower,mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like may be used todescribe examples of the present disclosure, it is understood that suchterms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in thedrawings. The orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwisechanged, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa,horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope ofthe present disclosure. It is understood that the examples disclosed anddefined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more ofthe individual features mentioned or evident from the text and/ordrawings. All of these different combinations constitute variousalternative aspects of the present disclosure. The examples describedherein explain the best modes known for practicing the disclosure andwill enable others skilled in the art to utilize the disclosure. Theclaims are to be construed to include alternative examples to the extentpermitted by the prior art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system, comprising: a film processing module;and a processor and memory in communication with the film processingmodule to: dynamically coordinate movement of the film processing modulerelative to a moving web of film, and perform a function on the web offilm with the film processing module.
 2. The system of claim 1, whereinthe film processing module is adapted to clamp, cut, and seal the film.3. The system of claim 2, wherein the processor is configured tomaintain contact between a cutting mechanism of the film processingmodule and the web of film for a predetermined period of time.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising a supporting rail, wherein thefilm processing module is moveably mounted on the supporting rail. 5.The system of claim 1, wherein the film processing module iselectrically powered by a bus disposed concentrically to the supportingrail.
 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the supporting rail includes aplurality of rail sensors in communication with the processor and theprocessor is further configured to monitor a location of the filmprocessing module along the supporting rail.
 7. The system of claim 4,wherein the supporting rail forms a curvilinear circuit.
 8. The systemof claim 7, wherein the supporting rail is oblong.
 9. The system ofclaim 8, wherein the web of film travels along an axis adjacent andparallel to the supporting rail.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein thefilm processing module includes a module sensor in communication withthe processor and the processor is further configured to determine anoffset of the film processing module relative to a demarcation on theweb of film based on information from the module sensor.
 11. The systemof claim 10, wherein the processor is further configured to move thefilm processing module relative to the web of film to close the offset.12. The system of claim 11, wherein the processor is further configuredto cut the web of film with the film processing module when the offsetis closed.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the film processing moduleis one of a plurality of film processing modules and the processor isfurther configured to dynamically coordinate movements of the filmprocessing modules relative to one another.
 14. The system of claim 13,wherein: a first set of the plurality of film processing modules isadapted to perform a first function on the web of film; and a second setof the plurality of film processing modules is adapted to perform asecond function on the web of film.
 15. The system of claim 1, whereinthe processor is further configured to control an air controller of thefilm processing module to draw a vacuum to retain a film product formedfrom the web of film.
 16. The system of claim 1, wherein the processorand the film processing module are in wireless communication with oneanother.
 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the film processing moduleincludes, and is electrically powered by, a battery.
 18. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the cutting mechanism includes one or more of a cuttingwire and a heatable knife.
 19. The system of claim 1, further comprisinga registration sensor adjacent to the web of film, the registrationsensor to detect demarcations on the web film of film.
 20. The system ofclaim 19, wherein the processor and memory are further to determine afrequency of the demarcations as the demarcations pass the registrationsensor and an offset between the demarcations.
 21. The system of claim20, wherein the processor and memory are to dynamically coordinatemovement of the film processing module relative to a moving web of filmbased on the offset.
 22. A film processing module, comprising: acarriage assembly configured to move along a supporting rail; a linearactuator engaged with the carriage assembly; and an uppermulti-functional assembly engaged with the linear actuator to perform afunction on a film adjacent to the supporting rail.
 23. The filmprocessing module of claim 22, further comprising a module sensor todetect a demarcation of the film.
 24. The film processing module ofclaim 23, wherein the module sensor is an optical sensor.
 25. The filmprocessing module of claim 22, wherein the upper multi-functionalassembly is adapted to clamp, cut, and seal the film.
 26. The filmprocessing module of claim 22, wherein one or more of the carriageassembly, the linear actuator, and the upper multi-functional assemblyare electrically powered by a bus disposed concentrically to thesupporting rail.
 27. The film processing module of claim 22, furthercomprising a battery, wherein one or more of the carriage assembly, thelinear actuator, and the upper multi-functional assembly areelectrically powered by the battery.
 28. The film processing module ofclaim 22, further comprising a transceiver to receive wirelessinstructions from a remote controller.
 29. A method for producing filmproducts, the method comprising: dynamically coordinating, with aprocessor, movement of a film processing module relative to a moving webof film; and instructing, with the processor, the film processing moduleto perform a function on the web of film.
 30. The method of claim 29,further comprising instructing, with the processor, the film processingmodule to maintain contact between a cutting mechanism of the filmprocessing module and the web of film for a predetermined period oftime.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the cutting mechanism includesone or more of a cutting wire and a heatable knife.
 32. The method ofclaim 29, further comprising determining, with the processor, an offsetof the film processing module relative to a demarcation on the web offilm based on information from a module sensor mounted in the filmprocessing module.
 33. The method of claim 32, further comprisinginstructing, with the processor, the film processing module to moverelative to the web of film to close the offset.
 34. The method of claim33, further comprising instructing, with the processor, the filmprocessing module to cut the web of film with the film processing modulewhen the offset is closed.
 35. The method of claim 29, wherein the filmprocessing module is one of a plurality of film processing modules andfurther comprising dynamically coordinating, with the processor,movements of the film processing modules relative to one another. 36.The method of claim 29, further comprising controlling, with theprocessor, an air controller of the film processing module to draw avacuum to retain a film product formed from the web of film.
 37. A filmprocessing module, comprising: a carriage assembly moveable along asupporting rail; a linear actuator engaged with the carriage assembly; abase engaged with the linear actuator; and an upper multi-functionalassembly driveably engaged with the linear actuator to move relative tothe base, the upper multi-functional assembly including: a clampingplate to selectively clamp a portion of a film against the base; and acutting mechanism to cut and seal the portion of the film.
 38. The filmprocessing module of claim 37, wherein the cutting mechanism heats whenan electric current is applied to the cutting mechanism.
 39. The filmprocessing module of claim 37, wherein the clamping plate is between thecutting mechanism and the base when the upper multi-functional assemblyis in a ready position relative to the base.
 40. The film processingmodule of claim 37, wherein the clamping plate is between the cuttingmechanism and the base when the upper multi-functional assembly is in aclamping position relative to the base.
 41. The film processing moduleof claim 37, wherein the cutting mechanism extends at least partiallybetween the clamping plate and the base when the upper multi-functionalassembly is in a cutting position relative to the base.
 42. The filmprocessing module of claim 37, wherein the base defines an inlay shapedto receive the cutting mechanism when the upper multi-functionalassembly is in a cutting position relative to the base.
 43. The filmprocessing module of claim 42, wherein the inlay is lined with anelastomer.
 44. The film processing module of claim 37, wherein theclamping plate defines a cutting opening through which the cuttingmechanism passes as the upper multi-functional assembly moves relativeto the base.
 45. The film processing module of claim 37, furthercomprising a cartridge heater, wherein the cutting mechanism is a knifeconfigured to be heated by the cartridge heater.
 46. The film processingmodule of claim 45, wherein the upper multi-functional assemblycomprises upper and lower biasing members to urge the clamping platetoward the base.
 47. The film processing module of claim 46, wherein thelower biasing member is compressed: when the upper multi-functionalassembly is in a clamping position relative to the base; and when theupper multi-functional assembly is in a cutting position relative to thebase.
 48. The film processing module of claim 37, wherein the uppermulti-functional assembly includes: a support arm engaged with thelinear actuator; an upper biasing member engaged with the support arm;and a lower biasing member engaged with the upper biasing member and theclamping plate; wherein the upper and lower biasing members bias theclamping plate toward the base.
 49. The film processing module of claim48, wherein the upper and lower biasing members are uncompressed whenthe upper multi-functional assembly is in a ready position relative tothe base.
 50. The film processing module of claim 48, wherein the upperbiasing member is uncompressed when the upper multi-functional assemblyis in a clamping position relative to the base.
 51. The film processingmodule of claim 48, wherein the upper biasing member is compressed whenthe upper multi-functional assembly is in a cutting position relative tothe base.
 52. The film processing module of claim 37, wherein theclamping plate defines an air opening and further comprises an air pumpin fluid communication with the air opening, the air pump to draw avacuum to retain the film against the clamping plate.
 53. The filmprocessing module of claim 52, further comprising an airflow lineengaged with the clamping plate, the air pump being in fluidcommunication with the air opening via the airflow line.
 54. The filmprocessing module of claim 37, wherein the cutting mechanism is acutting wire.
 55. A method for producing sealed film products,comprising: moving, with a processor, an upper multi-functional assemblyof a film processing module to a ready position relative to a base ofthe film processing module; moving, with the processor, the filmprocessing module to an aligned location on an oblong supporting railsuch that a portion of a film running parallel to the oblong supportingrail is between the upper multi-functional assembly and the base;moving, with the processor, the upper multi-functional assembly towardthe base to a clamping position to clamp the film; energizing, with theprocessor, a cutting mechanism of the upper multi-functional assembly toheat the cutting mechanism; moving, with the processor, the uppermulti-functional assembly toward the base to a cutting position to cutthe film; moving, with the processor, the upper multi-functionalassembly away from the base to an open position; and moving, with theprocessor, the film processing module to a transfer location on thesupporting rail such that a conveyor is between the uppermulti-functional assembly and the base.
 56. The method of claim 55,further comprising: controlling, with the processor, an air controllerto draw a vacuum to retain cut film against the upper multi-functionalassembly; and releasing, with the processor, the vacuum to deposit thecut film on the conveyor.
 57. A system, comprising: an oblong supportingrail; a power source and a controller in electrical communication withthe supporting rail; and a film processing module moveably engaged withthe supporting rail, the film processing module including: a base; anupper multi-functional assembly including a clamping plate and a cuttingmechanism in electrical communication with the power source and thecontroller to cut and seal film; and a linear actuator fixed to the baseand driveably engaged to the upper multi-functional assembly to move theupper multi-functional assembly relative to the base.
 58. The system ofclaim 57, wherein the clamping plate defines an air opening and the filmprocessing module includes an air controller in fluid communication withthe air opening, the air controller to draw a vacuum to retain the filmagainst the clamping plate.
 59. The system of claim 57, wherein thecutting mechanism is a cutting wire.